'There won't be a church big enough': Leeds grassroots football pays emotional tribute to Micah Richards' dad

Tributes have been paid from across the grassroots community in Leeds following the death of Lincoln Richards.

Former England defender Micah Richards was informed of the sudden death of his father shortly before going on air as a BBC pundit for England’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina.

Richards, who grew up in Chapeltown, appeared alongside Joe Hart and Wayne Rooney as Thomas Tuchel’s side slipped to a late 2-1 defeat.

Lincoln Richards, who moved from Basseterre to England in the 1960s, was a well known character in the local community and ran Sunday league team Chapeltown Fforde Grene FC, alongside his friend Charlie Thomas.

“There won't be a church big enough for him, there will be that many people coming,” Charlie told the Yorkshire Evening Post.

“We ran the Chapeltown team together and he inspired me. What he always wanted was to own his own Sunday League team and get floodlights installed up iat Bracken Edge. He was a good guy and a trustworthy guy - everyone will miss him.”

Charlie, who knew Lincoln for over 20 years, revealed that he would send barrels of clothes and football kits back to his home town of Basseterre, which is the capital of the Caribbean island federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis.

It is understood that this tradition is set to be carried on by Lincoln’s family, following his death on Wednesday morning.

Lincoln was also involved with running Yorkshire Amateurs and served as their Chairman for several years until he left the club in 2017. He played an instrumental role in saving the club from shutting down in 2012.

Alongside his commitment to grassroots football, Lincoln also used to help run Chapeltown’s famed West Indian Carnival and tributes have poured in via the YEP’s Facebook page since his death.

“So sorry to hear the news. I worked with Lincoln for 15 years, a true Yorkshire man,” said Tim O'Donnell. “Always laughing and good natured, constantly encouraging Micah and was at his football every week.

“He made friends everywhere he went and will be missed by many. A true gentleman.”

Clive Howarth added: “Lincoln was a total legend in Chapeltown. I only met him once and was blown away by the 'largeness' of his presence.

“My son played in defence alongside Micah for Archbishop Cranmer C of E Primary School. He has made his Dad proud, especially last night. A real pro x 2. RIP Lincoln.”

Despite being rocked by the devastating news, Micah Richards is expected to remain in the United States and will be part of the BBC’s punditry team for Sunday’s World Cup Final between Spain and Argentina.

Richards has received widespread praise from viewers for his professionalism and resilience by remaining part of Wednesday’s broadcast.

The 38-year-old paid tribute to his dad on Instagram and said his father “was my greatest fan” and “barely missed a game my entire life.”